Finnish President leaves; architect of Soviet policy

October 28, 1981

By With Analysis From Monitor Correspondents Around The World

Edited By Karla Vallance

Helsinki

President Urho Kekkonen resigned because of illness Tuesday after 25 years in office. The 81-year-old President was architect of the ''Finlandization'' policy which forged close ties with the Soviet Union but preserved Finland's formal neutrality.

Dr. Kekkonen created a Finland that was stable, prosperous, and neutral - but under the watchful gaze of the Kremlin.

Finland is not expected to veer from its close relations with the Soviet Union when Kekkonen is replaced, likely by Prime Minister Mauno Koivisto. He has handled presidential duties during Kekkonen's illness.